The American University in Cairo's (AUC) School of Continuing Education (SCE) has announced the graduation of the first cohort from Egypt's first Film Industry Business Certificate. The programme, launched this summer in partnership with the international Silver Screen Film School in Romania, provides hands-on training in production, marketing, budgeting, distribution, and film financing. The courses were taught by award-winning filmmakers and producers from Silver Screen Film School alongside AUC business experts. "The certificate bridges a long-standing gap in film education, merging creativity with the vital business skills needed to thrive in the film industry," said Mahmoud Allam, dean of SCE. "We're proud to introduce a program that speaks directly to the needs of aspiring filmmakers, producers, marketers and entrepreneurs across the region." Participants in the inaugural cohort included aspiring producers, marketers, and creative entrepreneurs who received training on how to pitch projects, manage financing, navigate distribution, and build personal brands using AI tools. Graduates praised the programme for its unique focus on turning creative ideas into viable projects. "When I heard about the certificate, I was really excited. I had studied filmmaking, but never learned the business side formally," said Yasmine Waali, a filmmaker and graduate of the programme. "As filmmakers, we truly need this knowledge." Mariam Hamdy, an AUC alumna and co-founder of the Silver Screen Film School, said the programme is designed not just for emerging talent but also for those shifting careers or reigniting a passion for film. "This program is designed to combine world-class mentorship from both Silver Screen and SCE's strength in applied learning and professional development," said Doaa Salem, senior director of outreach and partnerships at AUC's SCE. "We see this certificate as the first step in building a stronger, more resilient film ecosystem." Founded in 1919, The American University in Cairo is a leading English-language, American-accredited institution of higher education.
